Australia: Australian budget airline Jetstar has sparked widespread debate after announcing that passengers will soon have to pay to store larger carry-on bags in overhead lockers, with the new policy set to take effect from February.
Under the revised baggage rules, all passengers will still be allowed to bring one small personal item that fits under the seat in front of them. However, travellers wishing to carry a larger cabin bag in the overhead compartment will need to purchase an overhead locker allowance, which also includes priority boarding.
Jetstar said the changes follow extensive research and feedback from both customers and cabin crew, who identified baggage weighing at the gate and limited overhead locker space as major sources of stress during boarding. The airline has also removed its previous 7kg hand luggage limit and will no longer routinely weigh cabin bags at the gate. Instead, passengers are advised to keep carry-on luggage under 10kg so they can safely lift it into the overhead lockers.
Prices for overhead locker access will start at $17.6 (A$25) for shorter domestic routes, such as Launceston to Sydney, while longer international flights, including Cairns to Tokyo, could cost around $36.6 (A$52). The airline noted that pricing may vary depending on demand, with some Sydney-to-Osaka flights already showing charges of $42.3 (A$60) each way.
Jetstar Chief Executive Officer Stephanie Tully said the updated policy is designed to improve the boarding experience, make more efficient use of overhead locker space and help flights depart on schedule. The move aligns Jetstar with several other low-cost carriers, including easyJet and Ryanair, which already charge passengers for larger cabin bags placed in overhead compartments.
The announcement has generated mixed reactions across social media. Critics questioned whether airlines would continue introducing additional charges, with some joking that passengers might soon have to pay to use onboard toilets. Others argued that travellers already pay separately for seats, checked baggage, food and drinks, making the new fee another financial burden.
However, many passengers welcomed the change, saying overcrowded overhead lockers have become a common issue caused by travellers bringing oversized or multiple bags into the cabin. Supporters believe the new policy could lead to fairer use of storage space and a smoother boarding process.
While opinions remain divided, Jetstar maintains that the updated baggage policy is intended to create a more efficient and less stressful travel experience for both passengers and crew.
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